MALACHITE. ...

Description

MALACHITE
Shilu Mine, Yangchun Co., Yangjiang Prefecture, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
There is something visually fascinating about the surface of this Malachite. With the possible exception of its deep green color, the surface luster and the organically irregular folding of the surface look very much like the skin of an exotic alien animal, patiently waiting to unfold and flow smoothly away. Luster such as this is rarely seen because it is very difficult for the unskilled miners who collect these specimens to protect them from damage during removal and transport. In this case they were successful, or lucky. The unique velvety luster is the result of millions of radiating Malachite needles seen end on. On the back of the specimen it is possible to view the same needles from the side, which produces a silky, chatoyant type of luster quite different from the top surface. Since Malachite is pure copper carbonate, it is considered to be extremely high-grade copper ore. If it were not for these miners, this specimen would now be about $2 worth of copper wire in an electric motor somewhere. This Malachite is in pristine condition and measures 4 ½ x 3 ½ x 2 inches.

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